Fenway-ians. French expats, and everyone else in search of a proper French onion soup and crème brûlée have a new home away from home at chef Douglass Williams’ DW French, which is now open in the Pierce Boston building on Boylston Street. The James Beard Award-nominated chef and owner of MIDA (with locations in the South End, Newton & East Boston), as well as APizza in North Station’s Hub Hall, has tapped into his early chefing days in Paris for the new brasserie that is also a nod to stories of Black American creatives who, in the face of adversity, thrived in the City of Light.
The menu is summed up in the restaurant’s motto of “French for all,” and features an inviting collection of Parisian classics like Escargots En Croute with garlic butter, and accompanied by fried parsley and grilled sourdough; a Beef Bourguignon Sandwich made with sliced London broil, caramelized onions, aioli and whole grain mustard; and Steak Frites with hanger steak and watercress or Moules Frites with caramelized fennel-garlic broth and creme fraiche. There are of course also a few American twists including ice crudites of carrot, celery, radish and peppers served with ranch dressing and green goddess; and a DW Burger on a brioche bun with “fromage a la Americain,” grilled onions and frites. Be sure to save room for profiteroles and zesty Tart Citron.
MIDA partner and sommelier Seth Gerber brings his signature style to the drinks menu, which goes all in on small-production French wines, plus an extensive cocktail list designed with artisan French Spirits, and a selection of local and imported beers. Folks looking to linger over coffee and dessert will also find something special to cap the night off from a selection of brandy, vermouth and digestifs.
The space transforms the modern vibe of the luxury building into a warm and lively room that blends contemporary aesthetics with design elements reminiscent of a classic French brasserie. The space was designed by Sousa Architects and features glistening white subway tile, rich red banquettes, dark wood, and a welcoming soft blue bar area. There’s room for 100 people inside at traditional tables as well as bar seating, plus there is space for 30 on the sprawling patio in warmer months.
DW French is located at 1391 Boylston St. and is open for dinners from 4:00 to 10:00pm Sunday through Thursday, and 4:00 to 11:00pm on Friday and Saturday. They’re also serving up Pain Purdue and classic Croque Madame at brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30am to 3:30pm. You can check out the menu below or on their website, and keep up with what’s happening on their IG. Reservations are available here or give a call at 617.865.9900.
